Blogging about Canada's most diverse city

Innovative housing solutions in Barrie

Community party and pig roast will raise funds for ‘much-needed’ housing in Barrie

Tickets are now available forRedwood Park Communities’, a community party and pig roast at Heritage Estates Winery and Cideryon Oct. 20.The event includes performances byandDani Strongand will raise money to support Redwood Park Communities’Hope Through Housing capital campaign, a partnership with The Salvation Army to build a two-storey building with 12 fully-furnished two-bedroom apartments for families in crisis.

“We believe the opposite of homelessness is not just housing, it’s community,” says Tim Kent, Redwood Park Communities founder and executive officer. “HomeComing is one way we can bring community together and showcase the power we have collectively to make a difference. I know a lot of people are frustrated by the affordable housing situation here in Barrie — this is a chance to turn that frustration into action. I want people to know there’s hope. You can help provide much-needed housing.”

Redwood Park Communities is also seeking corporate sponsors to help offset costs of the event so more money can go to the cause. Local businesses that are interested in learning more about sponsorship can contact.

Notes Kent, “So much of what we’ve been able to accomplish over the years has been thanks to our corporate sponsors and partners from within the construction industry and beyond, as well as the local media. They recognize that solutions to complex social issues require the involvement of all of us and do their part to help. It’s inspiring.

Redwood Park Communities has received increased attention recently for its role in theBarr’s Motel conversionthat is underway on Essa Rd. in Barrie. The $2.5 million project will create furnished bachelor apartments for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness and will provide the supports to keep them housed successfully.

Kent concluded, “You don’t need me to quote stats about our local housing and homelessness crisis, you just need to walk down Barrie streets near the downtown and you’ll see it yourself. These are people. They need our help. We are answering the call and continue to invite the community to join us.”

Redwood Park Communities is a charity that helps build safe, hopeful and affordable communities that support families and individuals in Simcoe County, Ontario. Visithttp:www.redwoodparkcommunities.com/or watch thisvideofor more information.